The Cost of a Trip Between Burlington and Wilmington: Exploring the Routes Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip between Burlington and Wilmington in Vermont? One of the factors to consider is the cost of the journey. With fluctuating gas prices, it's essential to explore the different routes available and calculate the associated expenses to make an informed decision. In this article, we will examine multiple travel routes, their distances, corresponding costs, and recommend the most cost-effective option.

Route 1: Taking Interstate 89 and Route 9

The most common and straightforward route from Burlington to Wilmington involves taking Interstate 89 and then transitioning onto Route 9. This route covers a total distance of approximately 90 miles.

Traveling along Interstate 89, you'll pass through cities like Williston, Waterbury, and Montpelier. Once you reach Exit 6, you'll exit I-89 and continue on Route 9. This scenic road leads you through breathtaking landscapes, passing by towns such as Bennington and Brattleboro, until you reach your destination, Wilmington.

To calculate the cost of this trip, we need to consider the average gas mileage of the vehicle, current gas prices, and the distance traveled. Let's assume the average gas mileage of the vehicle is 30 miles per gallon (mpg) and the current gas price is $3.00 per gallon.

The total gas consumption for this route can be calculated by dividing the distance (90 miles) by the vehicle's gas mileage (30 mpg): 90 miles ÷ 30 mpg = 3 gallons.

Now, to determine the cost, we multiply the gas consumption (3 gallons) by the current gas price ($3.00 per gallon): 3 gallons × $3.00/gallon = $9.00.

Therefore, the estimated cost of this trip using Route 1 would be approximately $9.00 in gas expenses.

Route 2: Exploring scenic Route 7 and Route 9

For those seeking a more scenic drive, another option is to take Route 7 through the Green Mountains before transitioning onto Route 9. This alternative route, although slightly longer, offers a unique and picturesque journey.

Traveling along Route 7, you'll pass through towns like Shelburne, Middlebury, and Rutland, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and stunning mountain views. Once you reach Bennington, you'll leave Route 7 and continue along Route 9, just like in Route 1, until you reach Wilmington.

Since this route covers a longer distance than the previous one, calculating the estimated cost of this trip requires adjusting the gas consumption calculation. Using the same assumptions of a vehicle with an average gas mileage of 30 mpg and a current gas price of $3.00 per gallon, we can proceed with the calculation.

The total distance for this route is approximately 125 miles. Dividing this distance by the vehicle's gas mileage (30 mpg) gives us: 125 miles ÷ 30 mpg = 4.17 gallons.

Multiplying the gas consumption (4.17 gallons) by the current gas price ($3.00 per gallon), we find that the estimated cost of this trip using Route 2 would amount to approximately $12.51 in gas expenses.

Route 3: Opting for the Most Direct Path on Interstates

If saving time and reaching your destination as quickly as possible is your priority, choosing to travel via the most direct path on interstates might be the best bet. This route involves taking Interstate 89 and transitioning onto Interstate 91 before eventually reaching Wilmington.

By selecting this route, you eliminate the scenic diversions of Route 9 and Route 7 but reduce the total distance to approximately 85 miles.

Applying the same assumptions as before – a vehicle with an average gas mileage of 30 mpg and a current gas price of $3.00 per gallon – let's calculate the estimated cost for this route.

Dividing the distance (85 miles) by the vehicle's gas mileage (30 mpg) gives us: 85 miles ÷ 30 mpg = 2.83 gallons.

Multiplying the gas consumption (2.83 gallons) by the current gas price ($3.00 per gallon), we find that the anticipated cost of this trip using Route 3 would be approximately $8.49 in gas expenses.

Recommendation: The Most Cost-Effective Route

After comparing the estimated costs of each route based on current gas prices, it is evident that Route 3 – the most direct path on interstates – is the most cost-effective option. With an estimated gas expense of $8.49, it not only saves on travel costs but also reduces the overall travel time compared to Route 1 and Route 2.

However, it's worth noting that if awe-inspiring scenery is a priority, both Route 1 and Route 2 offer breathtaking views of Vermont's picturesque landscapes and charming towns. For leisurely drives or sightseeing adventures, either of these routes may be the preferred choice despite the slightly higher cost.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning a trip between Burlington and Wilmington in Vermont requires considering the cost of the journey based on current gas prices. After examining the different routes available, it is recommended to choose Route 3, traveling via Interstate 89 and Interstate 91. This direct path offers the most cost-effective option, estimating gas expenses at approximately $8.49. However, for those seeking stunning scenery and leisurely drives, Route 1 and Route 2 – though marginally more expensive – provide opportunities to witness Vermont's natural beauty. Regardless of the chosen route, the journey is sure to be a memorable one, taking approximately XX hours to complete the trip.